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Thursday, May 29, 2014

Tres na lang

Last three pesos

“I
travelled to a really far island to share the gospel and back with just 3 pesos
in my pocket.”

This is Josh’s story.
Josh has long committed to go on
Nehemiah Teams again this summer. He had actually also committed to join AOT
last January but many “things” blocked his way. But this summer, no matter
what, he would not be stopped. Josh,
came from a real humble family. I know how many they were but it seemed to me
that he is the bread winner of the family. He worked different part time jobs
while faithfully serving his church the entire time that he was waiting for
summer. Because of urgent family needs nothing was really left from all
whatever humble amount he earns.

I remember
coming to their house, Josh washing
clothes to use for the summer, admitting he had nothing and have not had any
meal that day, his mom came in telling Josh that
don’t have any rice to cook for the coming meal. And here he is preparing to go
not sure if his church would permit and even a slimmer chance that they would
support him financially.

He was
allowed to go. With his last 13 pesos he picked up a co-participant at the
airport. 10 pesos for fare now he only had 3 pesos left. A month to go in a very
remote island, how will that be Lord?

He packed
his stuff and went with the participants to the terminal. "Tres na lang". he
thought in his heart, "if I can get on this van, indeed I am going."

Without
asking the other participants for help, they covered his fare. God touched
different people to contribute to his registration fee. Some help with
toiletries.

Off to the island they went. He saw people come to faith. He saw
how those people who are very devout to their religion yet without assurance of
forgiveness and rest finally come to faith, served the community, made good
friends, invested in the lives of kids and was loved by the island.